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James McDonald Penalized for Premature Celebration in Spectacular Cox Plate Victory with Via Sistina

James McDonald Makes History with Third Consecutive Cox Plate Victory

In a dazzling display of skill and timing, superstar jockey James McDonald has etched his name into the annals of horse racing history by winning his third consecutive Cox Plate aboard the impressive Via Sistina. The $5 million feature race, held at Moonee Valley on Saturday, showcased McDonald’s exceptional talent as he executed a perfectly timed run, ultimately crossing the finish line a staggering eight lengths ahead of his nearest competitor.

A Race to Remember

As the race unfolded, McDonald demonstrated his mastery of the track. Timing his run to perfection, he made his move on the final bend, swiftly swooping to the front and leaving the competition in his wake. With victory all but assured long before the finish line, McDonald couldn’t contain his excitement and celebrated early, standing up in the saddle to acknowledge the roaring crowd. However, this exuberance came at a cost; he was later fined $2,000 by Racing Victoria Stewards for what they deemed a “celebratory gesture prior to the winning post.”

A Remarkable Week for Via Sistina

The triumph was particularly remarkable given the tumultuous week leading up to the race for Via Sistina. Just days before the Cox Plate, the horse had a frightening training incident where she tossed McDonald and galloped around the track, raising concerns about her readiness for the big race. Despite this setback, trainer Chris Waller’s preparation paid off, and the mare delivered a performance that left spectators in awe.

The Competition and Race Dynamics

In the race, Japanese raider Prognosis finished in second place, while Godolphin’s Broadsiding secured third. Fan favorite Pride Of Jenni initially led the pack but faded dramatically as the race progressed, finishing well back. The dynamics of the race highlighted McDonald’s strategic prowess, as he navigated the field with precision, ultimately leading to a record-breaking performance.

McDonald’s Milestone Achievement

For McDonald, this victory was not just another win; it marked his 100th Group 1 win, a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Commentators and fans alike celebrated the moment, with Bruce McAvaney remarking on the extraordinary nature of McDonald’s achievement. “We have seen some extraordinary things here in Cox Plates. J-Mac’s 100th Group 1 win. He wins the Cox Plate for the third consecutive year. It is the stuff of legends,” he said.

A Record-Breaking Performance

The race time of 2:01.07 not only secured McDonald’s victory but also shattered the previous record set by the legendary Winx in 2017, which stood at 2:02.94. Additionally, Via Sistina’s winning margin of eight lengths equaled Winx’s record, further solidifying the significance of this race in the context of Australian horse racing history.

Emotional Moments Post-Race

After the race, an emotional Chris Waller reflected on the victory, having now won Australasia’s weight-for-age championship five times, including four with the iconic Winx. Waller was visibly moved, acknowledging the challenges faced leading up to the race and the importance of both the horse and jockey’s well-being. “Forget what happened Tuesday, she’s a good horse and (it was) my job to prove it,” he stated, emphasizing the resilience of both Via Sistina and McDonald.

Overcoming Adversity

McDonald himself admitted to feeling uncertain about their chances following the training mishap. “I thought our hopes were doomed,” he confessed, recalling the moment he watched Via Sistina gallop away after the incident. Yet, he managed to channel that pressure into a phenomenal performance, showcasing his ability to thrive in high-stakes situations.

A Legacy in the Making

At just 32 years old, McDonald has become the fifth and youngest jockey to reach the century mark in Group 1 wins in Australia. His latest Cox Plate triumph not only adds to his legacy but also places him among an elite group of jockeys who have achieved three consecutive Cox Plate victories. He joins the ranks of Hugh Bowman and Brent Thomson, further solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greats.

The Road Ahead

As McDonald and Waller look to the future, the excitement surrounding Via Sistina and her potential for further success remains palpable. With the Cox Plate now behind them, both horse and jockey will undoubtedly be looking ahead to new challenges, eager to continue their winning ways in the world of horse racing.

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